Louisiana ranks 47th in the nation when it comes to the quality of life and well being provided to the state’s children. Additionally, in Louisiana, more than 15,000 reports of child abuse and neglect are made annually.

Those are the sad statistics LouisianaChildren.org officials are pushing to the forefront this month in a dual role bringing awareness to Child Abuse Prevention Month in April while promoting “Geaux Blue For Kids!”

The initiative, organizers said, is meant to inspire and encourage Louisiana residents to stand up and speak out for abused and neglected children and to prevent more children from experiencing abuse or neglect.

Those interested can join LouisianaChildren.org by selecting a day in April to dress in blue at work, decorating the office in the “Geaux Blue For Kids!” theme or choosing another unique way to show your support. Those participating are asked the share how they “Geaux Blue For Kids!” on social media by posting ideas with the hashtag #GeauxBlue.

Like everywhere else in Louisiana, the issue of child abuse and neglect has a home in the River Parishes.

The tragic news includes the conviction of a Reserve couple last year in the death of their son, the murder of Talaija Dorsey in St. James Parish or the arrest Friday of a LaPlace man, accused of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl.

We have so much room to improve as a community in protecting our children, and raising awareness of the issue is where to start.

Child advocacy programs throughout Louisiana are planning awareness events throughout this month, and LouisianaChildren.org will once again host the Louisiana Child-Well Being Summit on April 29-30 at the Cook Hotel and Conference Center at LSU.

The focus of the second annual summit will be on the effects of violence and trauma on older youth and how we can help adolescents more successfully transition into adulthood.

Visit louisianachildren.org to learn more about keeping children safe and volunteering opportunities locally.